Special features in location, cultivation and processing
The highlands of Yunnan and Lincang have a generally mild, subtropical climate that extends even to higher elevations. However, nighttime temperatures can fluctuate significantly, creating a stimulating climate perfect for tea cultivation. The leaves for this tea come from a high-altitude tea farm in Bangdong, Lincang, situated at approximately 1850–2000 metres. The tea leaves are harvested from trees over 300 years old, which grow freely among wild, rocky shrubs.
After harvesting, the tea leaves are spread out and slowly dried over several days. To eliminate any remaining moisture, they undergo a gentle 60°C drying. Following this, the leaves are prepared for pressing into tea cakes: they are portioned (100g), steamed with hot air, carefully softened, and machine-pressed into their characteristic shape. Finally, the tea bars undergo a multi-day drying phase before being packaged.